Enter your search term

Search by title or post keyword

List Of Ridesharing Companies: 23+ Best Options For 2023

6 Resources

Ridesharing has revolutionized urban mobility, offering an on-demand, eco-friendly alternative to traditional transportation. With a tap on our smartphones, we can now hail rides from global giants to local specialists.

As we navigate through 2023, here’s your compact guide to the leading ridesharing companies shaping our journeys.

List of Ridesharing Companies (Overview)

We’ve included an overview of our top picks below. For detailed information on each pick, scroll down.

Global Ridesharing Giants

  1. Uber: Worldwide industry leader
  2. Lyft: Top North American competitor
  3. DiDi Chuxing: Asian ridesharing titan
  4. Bolt (formerly Taxify): Europe’s fast-growing platform

Regional Ridesharing Players

North America

  • Via: Efficient urban carpooling
  • zTrip: Taxi meets tech convenience
  • Arro: Modern taxi-hailing app
  • Curb: Taxi and rideshare integration
  • Wingz: Flat-rate airport rides
  • Flywheel: Tech-driven taxi experience

Europe

  • Gett: Global taxi-tech crossover
  • BlaBlaCar: European long-distance carpooling
  • Free Now (formerly MyTaxi): Pan-European taxi service

Asia

  • Grab: Southeast Asian super-app
  • Ola: India’s ridesharing pioneer
  • Gojek: Indonesia’s multi-service platform

Africa

  • Little Cab: Kenya’s leading platform

South America

  • Cabify: Latin American sleek rideshare

Up-and-Coming Ridesharing Startups

  1. Rapido: Asia’s bike-taxi sensation
  2. Lime Rides: Scooter to car evolution
  3. Ziro: AI-powered rides
  4. Hitch: U.S. long-distance connector
  5. GoKid: Children’s carpool solution
  6. Scoop: Daily commuter carpooling

Rideshare Companies That Have Closed

  1. Juno: Membership-based ride platform

Global Ridesharing Giants

1
Uber
Worldwide industry leader

Uber

  • Flexible Scheduling: Book rides instantly or in advance.
  • Driver Tracking: Real-time GPS tracking of your Uber driver.
  • Safety Sharing: Share trip details with contacts for added safety.​1
Read More

Uber, the leading ridesharing service in North America, offers a convenient app that allows users to summon a car anytime. The app supports a diverse range of payment methods, including cash, cards, PayPal, Venmo, gift cards, and more.

  • UberPOOL: Uber’s carpooling service lets users split the cost of a ride with other people.
  • UberX: UberX is a lower-cost ridesharing option offering sedans.
  • UberXL: If you need to transport more passengers, this service works well. It’s similar to UberX, but it allows for larger cars that can hold a larger group.
  • UberBLACK: Drivers using UberBlack drive more luxurious cars and give their riders a more premium experience. The price for this service is much higher compared to other Uber services.
  • UberSUV: The UberSUV service is similar to UberBLACK, but the cars are larger and include a variety of amenities.
  • UberLUX: UberLUX works well for those who want a different level of luxury and comfort. The cars used by drivers include high-end Mercedes models, Audi A8, etc.
  • Uber also offers food delivery services.

Availability

Uber is available in most cities across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Uber drivers are in most metropolitan areas such as Barcelona, Berlin, Miami, Boston, Chicago, Dubai, London, Los Angeles, Madrid, Mexico City, and San Francisco.

Download

Mobile Apps: Android | iOS

Pros
  • Convenience: You can request a ride from the app at any time.
  • Uber is open 24 hours a day.
  • Uber is available in most areas.
Cons
  • Surge Pricing: Sometimes, you might have to pay more for an Uber ride due to high demand.
  • Not driver-friendly: For example, they don’t get benefits.
2
Lyft
Top North American competitor

Lyft

  • Experience Focus: Community-oriented service with safety and comfort prioritized.
  • Driver Autonomy: Flexible scheduling for drivers without binding commitments.
  • Loyalty Program: Earn points for discounts, promoting customer retention.
Read More

Lyft operates as a prominent ridesharing service in the U.S. and Canada, providing users with a seamless platform to quickly request drivers when needed.

The company has garnered significant appreciation, with many users favoring Lyft over competitors like Uber. A notable reason for this preference stems from the perception that Lyft offers a more driver-friendly environment, ensuring a better experience for both drivers and riders.

Lyft offers these main services:

  • Lyft: The cheapest non-carpool service offered.
  • Lyft Plus: A service that allows you to ride in larger vehicles such as SUVs and vans. Lyft Plus can accommodate up to six passengers, including their belongings.
  • Lyft Lux: An option that costs more than Lyft but is similar to Lyft Plus. The difference is that your driver will drive a luxury car such as a Cadillac, BMW, or Tesla.
  • Lyft Line: An option that’s similar to UberPOOL. You can split the cost of rides with other passengers going in a similar direction as you.

Availability

Lyft is available in most areas of the U.S. and Canada. It offers services in cities such as New York City, Orlando, Toronto, Santa Barbara, Chicago, and more.

Download

Mobile Apps: Android | iOS

Pros
  • Drivers are typically treated better than Uber.
  • All Lyft drivers go through background checks.
Cons
  • Surge Pricing: Sometimes Lyft’s prices rise due to high demand.
  • Coverage is limited compared to Uber.
3
DiDi Chuxing (AKA Didi)
Asian ridesharing titan

DiDi Chuxing (AKA Didi)

  • Safety Features: Enhanced user protection with SOS button and driver vetting.
  • In-App Navigation: Optimized real-time routing for users.
  • Flexible Payments: Various in-app and cash payment methods.
Read More

Didi Chuxing began in China as a taxi-hailing app and later expanded its rideshare services across Asia. It stands as Uber's main rival in the regions it serves. The Didi app, reminiscent of Uber's interface, offers users options to hail bikes, cars, or taxis.

Availability

You can use Didi throughout much of East Asia and parts of Southeast Asia. The company now operates in over 400 cities, including Tokyo, Taipei, and Bangkok.

Download

Mobile Apps: Android | iOS

Pros
  • You can book rides in advance without having to pay in full.
Cons
  • Some users report that the company charges high fees, especially for foreigners and expats.
4
Bolt
Europe’s fast-growing platform

Bolt

  • Safety Features: Enhanced user protection with SOS button and driver vetting.
  • In-App Navigation: Optimized real-time routing for users.
  • Flexible Payments: Various in-app and cash payment methods.
Read More

Bolt, based in Estonia, serves as an Uber alternative in over 45 countries. It allows users to book on-demand vehicles or public transportation, with the option to schedule rides ahead of time. Additionally, the app frequently offers customers discounts and rewards.

Availability

Bolt operates mainly throughout Europe, although it also moved into Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Australia (such as in Sydney).

Download

Mobile Apps: Android | iOS

Pros
  • You can book rides in advance without having to pay in full.
Cons
  • Some users report that the company charges high fees, especially for foreigners and expats.

Regional Ridesharing Players

North America

1. Via

Via, active in major cities like Chicago, New York City, and London, functions as a carpooling app to ease traffic. Designed to resemble public transportation, the app provides pickup times and route details. It pairs riders heading the same way and prominently displays pickup points and destinations.

Availability

You’ll find Via throughout the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, particularly in large metropolitan areas. It’s also available in Brazil, Germany, and Singapore.

Advantages

  • Affordable fares.
  • Focuses on reducing carbon footprint.

Disadvantages

  • Mostly a carpool app, so it’s difficult to find private rides.

Mobile Apps: Android | iOS

2. zTrip

screenshot of the zTrip homepage

Ztrip stands out in the rideshare industry by prioritizing pre-scheduled rides, offering predictability for both riders and drivers. While this scheduled approach is core to its business, the platform also caters to on-demand service requests.

Availability: Ztrip predominantly serves US regions with significant airport activity, given that a considerable portion of their rides pertains to airport trips. The platform is particularly popular among taxi franchisees and independent taxi operators.

Advantages:

  1. Amplifies business prospects for existing taxi or rideshare operators.
  2. Ensures constant support with a 24/7 helpline.
  3. Offers leasing options for drivers who prefer not to use their personal vehicles.

Disadvantages:

  1. Its reach isn’t nationwide, limiting its accessibility.
  2. Competes in recognition with other more established rideshare giants.

3. Arro

Arro serves as a dual-purpose rideshare platform, facilitating independent drivers in bustling urban areas while simultaneously enabling passengers to electronically settle their traditional taxi fares via the app.

Availability:

Arro’s presence is pronounced in several major cities, with plans for continuous expansion. They emphasize supporting their community by offering 24/7 assistance to both riders and drivers, coupled with insightful strategies to bolster the rideshare business.

Advantages:

  1. Unwavering 24/7 customer support to address queries.
  2. Beneficial low commission structure, ensuring drivers retain a larger share.
  3. Periodic training sessions to empower drivers with tools to grow their rideshare clientele.

Disadvantages:

  1. Limited operational coverage means it’s not universally accessible.
  2. Struggles in brand recognition against industry titans.

4. Curb

What Is the Curb App (and How Does It Work)?

Based in San Francisco, Curb claims to be America’s top taxi app. While it offers carpooling in specific cities, its primary distinction from Lyft and Uber is its collaboration with taxi drivers.

Users can pre-book rides and utilize the “Pair and Pay” feature, which lets them flag down a taxi traditionally and then transfer the fare to the app once the journey begins.

Availability

It is limited to the United States and parts of Canada and Mexico.

Advantages

  • You can work with fully insured for-hire drivers and taxi drivers.
  • Use both electronic and cash options to pay for your rides.

Disadvantages

  • Some users find that the app doesn’t work properly 100% of the time.

Mobile Apps: Android | iOS

5. Wingz

Wingz is a ridesharing company specializing in airport rides. It doesn’t compete with Uber and Lyft, but you can arrange a ride-share through Wingz to go to the airport or an event.

Availability

Wingz operates mostly in the United States, although it does have some drivers in Canada and Mexico.

It’s available throughout 30 major U.S. cities.

Advantages

  • Professional and reliable drivers.
  • It’s a good option for those traveling to or from the airport.

Disadvantages

  • Coverage isn’t as broad as other companies such as Uber and Lyft.
  • Riders can’t choose their type of car. The company assigns one to you, which isn’t convenient if you need a specific type of vehicle.

Mobile Apps: Android | iOS

6. Flywheel

screenshot of flywheel rideshare service

Flywheel equips traditional taxis with a modern operating system, allowing drivers to use smartphones instead of the usual meters and dispatch systems.

Besides offering a rideshare service for urban trips, Flywheel stands out by simplifying the taxi-hailing process, making it more efficient than traditional call-and-wait methods.

Availability

You’ll find Flywheel rides in Houston, Washington D.C., San Francisco, and Fort Lauderdale.

Advantages

  • You can easily find a taxi ride.

Disadvantages

  • Only located in four cities.

Mobile Apps: Android | iOS

Europe

1. Gett

screenshot of the gett homepage

In 2017, Gett acquired Juno, only to discontinue it by 2019. As a ridesharing company, Gett specializes in corporate fleets, limos, and cabs, targeting business clientele rather than competing with Uber or Lyft. Users can book various providers and manage trips seamlessly through the Gett app.

Availability

Gett operates in Russia, Israel, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Advantages

  • A good option when you have longer airport runs.
  • Cheaper than Uber, especially during peak hours.
  • Competitive rates for town cars and other high-end vehicles.

Disadvantages

  • Coverage isn’t as extensive as Lyft or Uber.

Mobile Apps: Android | iOS

2. BlaBlaCar

screenshot of the blablacar homepage

BlaBlaCar stands distinct in the ridesharing realm, focusing on long-distance carpooling. Instead of traditional city commutes, riders and drivers connect for intercity travel, turning tedious solo drives into shared journeys.

Availability

While originating in France, BlaBlaCar has grown its footprint across Europe and several other countries worldwide. Its expansive network connects cities and towns, primarily catering to those seeking more economical long-distance travel options.

Advantages:

  1. Economical solution for long-haul travel, reducing individual travel expenses.
  2. Environmentally-friendly approach by maximizing vehicle occupancy and reducing the number of cars on the road.
  3. Unique “BlaBla” feature lets riders/drivers set their chattiness level, enhancing the journey experience.

Disadvantages:

  1. Exclusively designed for long-distance travel, making it unsuitable for quick, short commutes.
  2. Requires advanced planning, as instant rides might not always be available.
  3. Relies on trust, as you might spend extended hours with unfamiliar passengers/drivers.

3. Free Now (formerly MyTaxi)

screenshot of the freenow mytaxi homepage

Free Now, previously known as MyTaxi, is a rideshare and taxi-hailing platform connecting passengers to licensed taxis and private hire vehicles. With its intuitive interface and widespread reach, Free Now has become a favored alternative to traditional taxi services.

Availability

Born in Germany, Free Now has rapidly expanded across Europe, covering many major cities. Its presence continues to grow, as it seeks to provide reliable transportation services across the continent.

Advantages:

  1. Connects riders to licensed taxis, ensuring professional service and regulated fares.
  2. Versatile options, including standard taxis, rideshares, e-scooters, and even car rentals.
  3. Supports instant hailing as well as pre-booking, offering flexibility to users.

Disadvantages:

  1. Limited to European cities, excluding potential users from other parts of the world.
  2. Prices might be higher compared to non-regulated rideshare competitors.
  3. Availability issues during peak times due to reliance on licensed taxis.

Asia

1. Grab

grab logo in front of grab app car

In Southeast Asia, Grab stands as a strong competitor to Uber, but it offers more than just ridesharing. Riders can bring pets along and even choose motorbike rides. Its “JustGrab” feature simplifies the process, allowing users to secure rides with a single tap.

Availability

  • Grab operates in Southeast Asia, Australia, China, Taiwan, Japan, and India.

Advantages

  • Customer support is available 24/7.
  • Multiple ride types are offered.
  • GrabRewards programs let you earn points on hotels.

Disadvantages

  • You can only get rides if you’re in Southeast Asia.

Mobile Apps: Android | iOS

2. Ola

screenshot of the ola cabs homepage

Ola is a global rideshare platform that originated in India. Offering a range of services from budget rides to luxury experiences, Ola has rapidly become a preferred mode of transportation in numerous countries.

Apart from the traditional rideshare, Ola has diversified its portfolio to include auto-rickshaws, bikes, and even inter-city cab services.

Availability

While Ola originated and holds a dominant position in India, it has expanded its operations to countries like the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Its widespread network in these regions ensures easy availability for riders.

Advantages:

  1. A diverse fleet, catering to different needs – from budget to luxury rides.
  2. In-app safety features like emergency contacts and ride tracking enhance passenger security.
  3. Integrated digital payment system, Ola Money, for seamless transactions.

Disadvantages:

  1. Faced with regional competition, it might not always be the most preferred option in all its operational areas.
  2. Pricing can fluctuate during peak hours with surge charges.
  3. Service quality might vary due to the vast network of drivers.

3. Gojek

screenshot of gojek homepage

Originating from Indonesia, Gojek started as a motorcycle ride-hailing platform but swiftly evolved into a leading Southeast Asian super-app. It offers services ranging from transportation and food delivery to digital payments and shopping.

As a one-stop solution for diverse daily needs, Gojek has reshaped the region’s digital landscape and stands as a pivotal player in Southeast Asia’s tech scene.

Availability

Gojek is available in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Advantages

  • You can book rides as early as two weeks in advance.
  • The app offers travel cards so paying fares is easy to do.

Disadvantages

  • Limited coverage.

Mobile Apps: Android | iOS

Africa

1. Little Cab

screenshot of the little cab homepage

Little Cab is a ridesharing platform developed as a collaboration between Kenya’s Safaricom and a local tech company, Craft Silicon. Designed to offer safe, reliable, and affordable transportation options, Little Cab has become a popular choice for riders in East Africa.

Availability:

Little Cab primarily operates in Kenya, especially in major urban areas like Nairobi and Mombasa, but has ambitions to expand further across the African continent.

Advantages:

  1. Local understanding of the market ensures tailored services for riders.
  2. Provides various services from basic rides to a lady-bug option, where female drivers are assigned to female riders.
  3. Integration with Safaricom’s M-Pesa offers a seamless payment solution, popular in the region.

Disadvantages:

  1. Limited geographical coverage when compared to global rideshare giants.
  2. Ride availability might be lesser during peak times.
  3. Being relatively newer, might not have the same extensive driver vetting processes as more established global brands.

South America

1. Cabify

screenshot of the cabify homepage

Cabify, a taxi-sharing app, prioritizes safety with thorough driver background checks. Its standout feature is the geo-tracking, ensuring loved ones can track your location. Additionally, “Cabify Business” offers travel planning services for employees.

Availability

Available throughout Europe, Latin America, and Spain.

Advantages

  • You can pay through cash, credit, or PayPal.
  • You can schedule rides in advance.
  • Conducts extensive driver background checks.

Disadvantages

  • Hard to reach the company’s support team.
  • Not all types of cars are available.

Mobile Apps: Android | iOS

Up-and-Coming Ridesharing Startups

1. Rapido

screenshot of the rapido homepage

Rapido is India’s leading bike taxi platform, offering an innovative solution for the daily commute. With its unique two-wheeler transportation approach, it targets the congested urban landscapes of India, providing a quicker and more agile way to navigate through traffic.

Availability:

Rapido primarily operates in major cities across India, spanning from metropolises to emerging urban centers.

Advantages:

  1. Efficient solution for avoiding traffic jams common in Indian cities.
  2. Generally more affordable than traditional car-based ridesharing.
  3. Real-time tracking and safety features ensure rider security.

Disadvantages:

  1. Limited to solo riders due to the two-wheeler model.
  2. Might not be suitable for long distances or in unfavorable weather conditions.
  3. Safety concerns might arise when comparing to four-wheeler alternatives.

2. Lime Rides

A screenshot of the lime homepage

Lime is a transportation company known for its micro-mobility solutions, offering electric scooters and bikes for short urban trips. Designed to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce reliance on cars, Lime provides an eco-friendly alternative for quick city navigation.

Availability: Lime operates in numerous cities globally, spanning North America, Europe, and parts of Asia-Pacific. Their services are commonly found in dense urban areas and on university campuses.

Advantages:

  1. Provides an eco-friendly mode of transportation.
  2. Quick and convenient for short-distance travel.
  3. Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

Disadvantages:

  1. Not suitable for longer commutes or carrying heavy items.
  2. Safety concerns, as riders often share the road with larger vehicles.
  3. Availability might be limited during peak times or in specific zones.

3. Ziro

screenshot of Ziro rideshare service

Ziro, an AI-powered rideshare service, aims to streamline the experience for both drivers and consumers. Drivers benefit from not paying the hefty commissions typical of Lyft or Uber, while riders get cost-effective trips throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.

Availability

Ziro operates mainly in San Francisco. You’ll find it in the Bay Area and surrounding cities such as Oakland, Berkeley, Palo Alto, and San Jose.

Advantages

  • Drivers get paid more than they would with other ridesharing companies such as Uber or Lyft.
  • Each driver receives 100% of ride earnings.
  • Driver promotions are advantageous.
  • Ziro offers one of the cheapest options for riders.

Disadvantages

  • Very few drivers are available.
  • Limited range of cities.

Mobile Apps: Android | iOS

4. Hitch

screenshot of the hitch homepage

Hitch functions as an intercity rideshare application, connecting drivers with passengers traveling in the same direction, allowing for increased earnings on long-distance trips.

Availability:

Primarily available in Texas, Oklahoma, and Florida, Hitch provides a platform for drivers to offer one-way or round-trip rides to passengers.

Advantages:

  1. Opportunity for enhanced earnings through extended drives.
  2. Flexibility of earning on return journeys with round-trip options.
  3. Predictability in scheduling due to the option for pre-booking rides.

Disadvantages:

  1. Restricted operational presence – only in three states.
  2. Demands comfort with long-distance driving.
  3. Might not appeal to those preferring short, frequent trips.

5. GoKid

screenshot of the gokid homepage

GoKid stands as an alternative to mainstream rideshare services, catering specifically to parents with minors. As traditional services often don’t accommodate minors, GoKid bridges the gap.

Beyond basic transportation, it also encourages carpooling among parents, promoting both cost savings and community connections.

Availability: GoKid operates in areas where there’s a demand from parents seeking safe transport options for their minors. The platform predominantly focuses on connecting local parents to facilitate carpools.

Advantages:

  1. Offers secure transport options tailored for minors.
  2. Alleviates parental anxiety by ensuring safe rides.
  3. Empowers parents with real-time location tracking of their child.

Disadvantages:

  1. Not a revenue-generating opportunity for drivers.
  2. Trust barrier: Some parents might be hesitant to let their child ride with strangers.

6. Scoop

Scoop offers a unique solution for those weary of long work commutes, allowing users to share rides with co-workers or others traveling in the same direction. Notably, it integrates seamlessly with the messaging platform Slack, streamlining ride coordination.

Availability:

Scoop operates in areas with a high concentration of commuters, focusing on connecting individuals with similar routes, especially work commutes.

Advantages:

  1. Cost-effective commuting solution.
  2. A viable option for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.
  3. Reduces wear and tear on personal cars by sharing rides.

Disadvantages:

  1. Doesn’t serve as a source of income for drivers.
  2. Often involves sharing space with multiple co-passengers.

Ridesharing Companies That Have Closed

1. Juno

An Introduction to Juno Rideshare

Juno, once a notable ridesharing service primarily in New York City, ceased operations after declaring bankruptcy in 2019.

During its tenure, Juno stood out by offering prices more competitive than Uber and Lyft. Customers could opt for a monthly membership fee, and notably, Juno provided its drivers with more benefits compared to other competitors.

Availability

Limited availability in New York City when the app operated. No availability exists anymore.

Advantages

  • A ride with Juno offered a cheaper ride than with Uber or Lyft.
  • The app treated drivers better than some other ridesharing companies.

Disadvantages

  • Less real-time coverage than Uber and Lyft
  • Out of business

What is a Rideshare Company?

A rideshare company uses an app on your phone to connect with a driver who provides transportation for you.

Difference Between Carpooling and Ridesharing

Carpooling is a different type of activity from ridesharing.

In carpooling, riders split the cost of a ride with each other.

A driver can provide transportation to people who need a ride either for free or a minimal fee.

Many families and coworkers arrange to carpool for their daily activities to save money.

Doing so can reduce automobile expenses significantly.

Ridesharing is different from carpooling.

A company is an intermediary that connects customers with drivers in the ridesharing industry.

There’s no splitting of costs between passengers, unless riders choose a service such as Uber Pool or Lyft Line.

Instead, a customer pays a specific amount to get picked up and transported to their destination.

Rideshare companies make money by taking a cut of each transaction or charging customers through the app itself.

You Might Also Like

How to Carpool: Save Money by Sharing Your Ride

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve covered a lot of ground by giving you information about the above list of ridesharing companies. You might still have questions about a few specific details about rideshare apps.

What Are the top rideshare companies?

Lyft and Uber are the two biggest companies in terms of coverage. These two rideshare apps are often thought about first whenever people think about hailing a ride.

Most people don’t say they’re going to get rideshare anymore. Instead, they say they’re going to get an Uber or a Lyft.

What is the cheapest rideshare service?

Gett is often referred to as the rideshare app that offers the least expensive rides.

However, that advantage is offset by the fact that its coverage area isn’t as wide as Lyft or Uber. For this reason, try to get an Uber Pool or Lyft Line ride to drive your rideshare costs down.

What is the safest rideshare app?

There’s no definitive answer to the “safest” rideshare app as safety varies based on location, specific incidents, and user experiences. Major rideshare companies like Uber, Lyft, and others have implemented safety features, including emergency buttons, ride tracking, and driver background checks.

However, safety can also depend on local regulations and the company’s adherence to them. Always review local user feedback and news for the most current information.

Which rideshare company pays the most?

Ziro offers drivers the full fare, but it’s only active in San Francisco. To maximize earnings, sign up with all local rideshare services. Test each one to gauge profitability. Like any business, rideshare success hinges on experience and strategy.

Wrapping Up

Did you learn about a new rideshare app on this list of ridesharing companies? Download the new app and try it out.

If you’re going to visit another country, you can also download the app used most often in that area to get around during your vacation or business trip.